2. digital
  3. 1154138266

Cary 306 SACD: How good at redbook playback?

Hi, I am thinking of upgrading from my Cary 303/300 player to the new 306 SACD player. The main reason is because of the digital inputs which I can use for my digital music front end. I dont have any SACD and dont intend to buy that many because I am not that into classical or jazz. I have about 5000 redbook cds.

So my question is: How good is the 306 at redbook playback? Is it better than the 303/300? My other option is to just get a DAC but if the 306 is really good at redbook playback then I can get a better cd player and an external DAC in one package.

Thanks in advacne.
128x128tboooe
8 responses Add your response
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
aggielaw:

the 306 is a GREAT player. if you like the Cary sound, this cdp could be the last one you buy for a long time. please let me know if you have any specific questions.
aggielaw
267 posts
 
Tboooe...so, what say you?!
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
Thanks everyone. I should be getting my 306 this Wed. I cant wait to compare it to my 303!
lotus1
52 posts
 
yes ...the 306 sacd is a much better redbook player than the 303/300
rackon
301 posts
 
The RB playback on the Cary 306/SACD is stunning, even better than my Cary 303/300 with NOS tubes.

How much more is really a question for your ears and (mostly) your pocketbook.
jwpstayman
397 posts
 
TBoooe - save your money and get a good pair of NOS RCA 12AU7 tubes and the Herbies Audio Hal-O tube dampers and forget about the 306. It will take the 303/300 to a whole new level of performance!
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
To answer your question, I like the house sound of Cary Audio players so I want to stay with their cdp. The 306 offers digital inputs which I can use for my digital music. Since I already like the way Cary sounds I figure if I use their DAC for my digital music then I will be getting more of a good thing. I was thinking about getting an external DAC anyway so if I can get a DAC AND a great redbook cdp (better than my 303/300) with the 306 then I would prefer to do this. I hope this clarifies things.
aolmrd1241
1,029 posts
 
If sacd is not a priority why would you want to commit funds into that format,there are other good players that have ins that would fit the bill for redbook only. Just curious...
Log in to respond
More to discover
80x80
BRICASTI M1
80x80
Ayon Audio KRONOS TUBE DAC
80x80
Audiolab 9000CDT